You don’t see many events like this in Appalachia… it’s the kind of quality you’d expect on the coast. Having something this strong right here is both rare and exciting.
Cindy Sparks
SOAR Innovation Client
Presented in Partnership with
Beyond the Idea Stage: An 8-Week Traction Accelerator
If you’re beyond the idea stage of building a tech or tech-enabled business, the SOAR Innovation Startup Appalachia Accelerator, presented by Community Trust Bank is now accepting applications.
This isn’t a general small business class: It’s a focused program for founders in Eastern Kentucky using technology to build, deliver, or scale what they’re working on. You’ll get direct support from experienced entrepreneurs through cohort workshops and one-on-one coaching.
Founders who successfully complete the program may be eligible for a reimbursable grant of $3,000 to $5,000.
Applications are now closed.
Hear From Our Alumni:
I came into SOAR’s Founders Weekend excited to share my idea, but I didn’t expect to find so many meaningful partnerships with other founders. I walked away with a clearer path to investment and real momentum… I can’t recommend the experience enough.
Corey Shepherd
SOAR Innovation Client
SOAR Innovation has been more than a program — it’s been a bridge. Their guidance, encouragement, and connections have helped transform MountainView from a dream into a growing company that represents what’s possible for entrepreneurs in Eastern Kentucky.
Alex Lamb
SOAR Innovation Client
Through SOAR Innovation’s 1:1 coaching, networking, brainstorming, and relationship building, Sunflower Fuels has gained access to candidates for employment, prospective investors, and prospective customers. Thanks to SOAR Innovation’s support, I’ve not only strengthened my startup’s foundation but also expanded my network in ways I never imagined.
Gaby Blocher
SOAR Innovation Client
I’ve been through several incubators, but this one stood out, mainly because of the hands-on mentorship from [SOAR Entrepreneur in Residence] Rick West. Meeting him and the other founders in person brought everything to life and made the experience genuinely impactful.
Scott Stuckey
SOAR Innovation Client
What You’d Get From The Startup Appalachia Accelerator
Our Spring 2026 Cohort’s 8-Week Roadmap
Startup Appalachia Accelerator is a selective, traction-focused program for serious tech and tech-enabled founders who are ready to test in the market, gain real customer validation, sharpen pricing and positioning, and leave with measurable progress, not just ideas. Our Spring 2026 Cohort applications are now open!
Product Focus Workshop
Product Coaching (Private Coaching Window)
Customer and Market (Workshop)
Customer Coaching (Private Coaching Window)
Demand Test (Workshop)
Validation Coaching (Private Coaching Window)
Pricing and Revenue (Workshop)
Demo Day Prep and Next Steps Coaching (Private Coaching Window)
Demo Day: Founder Showcase
Outcomes & Impact
Past participants of the Startup Appalachia Accelerator have achieved more than they could on their own.
1
actively pursue their business within 6 months
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generated by previous SOAR Innovation entrepreneurs
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members in our Alumni & Mentor Network
Meet the SOAR Innovation Team
Our team lives and works in Eastern Kentucky, just like the entrepreneurs and small business owners we serve. We bring real-world experience, regional insight, and a shared commitment to helping ideas grow into lasting opportunity.
Kevin Davis
Entrepreneur in Residence
Join Us for Demo Day!
See What’s Being Built in the Region
Join SOAR Innovation on June 4th for the Startup Appalachia Accelerator Demo Day, presented by Community Trust Bank.
Founders from across Eastern Kentucky will showcase the businesses they’ve spent the last eight weeks developing inside the accelerator program.
Each founder will present their company, what problem they’re solving, and what comes next for their business.
Location: The Camayo Room, 1536 Winchester Ave #200, Ashland, KY 41101
This is a chance to see innovation happening locally — and to support the people building it.
Want to stay up to date on the next cohort?
- Take 5 minutes to fill out this form
- Meet with the SOAR Innovation team to talk through your goals and business ideas.
- Get notified when the next cohort opens and start accelerating your business.